Semillon

Semillon is a white wine varietal originating in France. It is the key varietal in Sauternes, an un-fortified honeyed dessert wine from Bordeaux, made from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. Whilst the varietal can stand on its own it is often blended with other varieties, notably Sauvignon Blanc, to form the very popular Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (SSB). The varietal is still grown extensively in France but also Australia, Chile, South Africa and Argentina.

Whilst the varietal is classified as full-bodied, it is perhaps at the medium end of the scale with medium acidity and medium fruit. It can range between pale and delicate to rich and oaked; from deeply golden aged wine to sweet dessert styles. Cooler climate styles show lime and yellow apple characteristics and in warmer climates more tropical fruits like papaya.

You will find numerous great examples in the Hunter Valley, which is famous for this varietal, and it accounts for 24% of the region’s entire wine volume. Plantings in the Barossa Valley have evolved to develop their own unique pink-skinned clone that is distinctive from those found in Bordeaux. Barossa Semillon is characterized by its full body, golden colour with low acidity.

Listed below are the wineries that produce Semillon.

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